Fans troll Maria B for capitalizing on Palestinian cause in fashion collection.
Renowned Pakistani fashion designer Maria B, who has been consistently raising her voice against the brutality going on in Gaza by Israel, has lately become the victim of trolling after launching her latest collection which she named Palestine-inspired, urging for Justice, freedom, and peace while adorned in the colors of the Palestinian flag red, white, black, and green features prints reminiscent of the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh.
People have denounced the designer and blamed her of capitalizing on the Palestinian cause for her own benefit.
Also read: Maria B to file case against ‘Barzakh’ in court
Captioning the launch of the collection, Maria wrote: “Freedom and Unity. Presenting a collection that holds a special place in Maria’s heart, a tribute to the enduring spirit of our Ummah. Falasteen. Inspired by those who stand tall, this collection embodies unity and strength. Launching online and in-stores tomorrow… All of the proceeds from the campaign will be donated to Palestine.”
While the gesture, which was meant to show solidarity with the Palestinian people and their struggle, has received a mixed response online.
View this post on Instagram
One user took a dig at Maria B for capitalizing on Palestinian cause, “While Palestinians are getting killed in the blink of an eye, Maria B thinks it’s the best time to start her modelling career by appropriating their culture. Her horrible clothes aren’t going to Free Palestine. She needs to be transparent about which charity she will be sending the proceeds to. No one is falling for this stunt. Shame on everyone involved in this campaign.”
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Another critic stated: “Instead of purchasing from this opportunist using Palestine for her own branding I would encourage people in the comments to purchase such things directly from Palestinians.”
Also read: A list of Israel products and their alternatives in Pakistan
A comment read, “Will you also be donating all profits to Palestine or are you just using someone’s suffering to make money yourself?” This skepticism is reflective of a broader concern among some consumers about the sincerity of brands that align themselves with social causes.
View this post on Instagram
Maria has also received considerable support from her followers.
One supporter commented, “She is the only designer who is speaking out for Palestine.”
This sentiment was echoed by others who viewed the collection as a bold and necessary statement from a prominent South Asian Muslim designer.
“Love this! Finally, a popular south Asian Muslim designer using their platform. Bravo!” another follower wrote, highlighting the significance of the designer’s influence in the fashion industry and beyond.
